sweep (something) under the rug

(redirected from swept something under the rug)

sweep (something) under the rug

To ignore, deny, or conceal from public view or knowledge something that is embarrassing, unappealing, or damaging to one's reputation. The senator has been accused of trying to sweep his former drug use under the rug.You need to stop sweeping your problems under the rug. Nothing will get resolved like that!

sweep something under the rug

mainly AMERICAN

If you sweep something under the rug, you try to hide it and forget about it because it makes you feel embarrassed or ashamed. Executives swept the theft under the rug, hoping to avoid being accused of mismanagement by directors and shareholders.Some of the most appalling crimes went unpunished, swept under the rug in order to placate the military. Note: Other verbs such as brush and push are sometimes used instead of sweep. You can't just brush this one under the rug. Note: The usual British expression is sweep something under the carpet.

All content on this website, including dictionary, thesaurus, literature, geography, and other reference data is for informational purposes only. This information should not be considered complete, up to date, and is not intended to be used in place of a visit, consultation, or advice of a legal, medical, or any other professional.